The United States Embassy, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Action for Cooperation against Trafficking in Person (UN-ACT) co-hosted a one-day workshop and event in Hanoi to commemorate both the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and Vietnam’s National Day Against Human Trafficking on July 30. The event brought together several competent agencies of the Vietnam government, local authorities, embassies, UN agencies and NGOs.

Addressing the morning session, David Knight, Chief of Mission, IOM Vietnam said "Trafficking in persons exists today in every country and every economic sector. Whether the business is apparel, clothing, coffee, entertaining or construction, this much is clear: no workplace or community is immune to human trafficking. As we mark the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, we are reminded, sadly, that those most vulnerable are too often exposed to disproportionate risks of exploitation and abuse when looking for better opportunities away from home."

During the workshop, the participants presented their achievements as well as challenges related to the implementation of the NPA for the years 2016 – 2018. Accordingly, the need for the completion of legislation, improvements in the assistance for victims of human trafficking and enhanced communication against trafficking in persons are of the most concern. The workshop provided an opportunity for the representatives of governments and international organizations to discuss recommendations and initiatives that will contribute to the more effective implementation of the NPA for the period 2019-2020. In the afternoon session, the participants had opportunities to learn and discuss the application of the new articles under the revised Penal Code, which criminalized all forms of labor trafficking and most forms of sex trafficking.

“Today is an ideal opportunity to discuss gaps in effective law enforcement, and better understand the relevant articles of the new Penal Code,” U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Caryn McClelland told the group. “Our collaborative efforts today matter. They will encourage proper implementation of the Penal Code and are crucial to ensuring traffickers face justice. They will also ensure victims’ services are administered effectively throughout Vietnam. Together, we can take the necessary steps to end human trafficking in Vietnam.”

Human trafficking affects every country in the world, whether as a country of origin, transit, or destination for victims. Children make up almost a third of all human trafficking victims worldwide, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Global Report on Trafficking in Persons. Additionally, women and girls comprise 71 per cent of human trafficking victims.